Going for a Jog

Allie has been begging for months to walk home from church. Something about it, perhaps the adventure, the independence, the fresh air after 2 hours of church, appeals to her. I remember visiting my cousins, the Wights, in SLC and getting to walk to and from church. It was awesome. So, I finally gave in to Allie's desire. Today was not too hot, not too cold, not too windy, which are my standard excuses for not letting her walk home.  When we walked to church with our cousins, it was a few blocks away. Allie jogged, ran, and walked 2 miles to get home today.

Sound scary? Well, to me it did. I couldn't just let my 7-year-old walk home from church alone, so I drove behind, beside, or slightly in front of her. I really did imagine strangers driving by wondering about the situation. I hoped that they didn't think she was in trouble and I was making her walk home. Who knows. But I drove 5 miles per hour following her little running feet down the street.

After about 1/2 mile, Aimee got out and joined her. She felt this would be a good way to get the car home faster and not have to sit and drive so slowly all the way home. Alex opted to sit in the car. Aidan was watching Diego and was quite happy with whatever was going on.

I followed the girls for another mile, most likely arousing suspicions and ponderous minds. After they peaked a small hill and were 1/2 mile from home, I drove home at normal pace and anxiously awaited their return. They walked in the door a few minutes later, Allie beaming.  She says she wanted to walk home, and she did it. She is thrilled with the thought.

She was quite comfortable in her clothing and didn't fret too much about her shoes on the way, but when she came in, she took off the shoes because they were hurting. Her reward? One blister. Not too shabby for running 5 mph for 2 miles in a dress and church shoes with a slight heel. She's smart enough to know that she doesn't want to do it again in the same shoes. I won't be at all surprised to find a pair of socks and Converse shoes in the car next Sunday.

All set for the Marathon